Caprese Salad, or Insalate caprese, is one of the simplest and perfect summertime dishes that requires the right ingredients, at the right time of the year. This Italian classic originated on the island of Capri with only three main ingredients; tomatoes, basil, and mozzarella cheese. Though the ingredients list is small, that makes it more critical that the tomatoes are summer-ripe, the mozzarella cheese is fresh, and the basil is crisp and fragrant.

The easiest way to prepare this salad is to simply alternate the sliced Tomatoes and Cheese, top with Basil leaves, drizzle with Extra Virgin Oil and Sea Salt. But, you can also make it your own, with you own ideas. For instance, using cherry tomatoes with a wide assortment of different colors and sizes, different types of basil, like Thai or Opal, or making a pesto to drizzle on top? The varieties are endless!

My version of Caprese, is shown above. The inspiration was Burrata cheese, which is fresh mozzarella stuffed with ricotta–the imported is the best, but pricey! The tart is a basic savory pie dough topped with the Burrata and then Golden Heirloom Cherry Tomatoes(that were peeled and marinated). The Ham brings some saltness to the dish.